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Seattle University McGoldrick Learning Commons

Opened in 2010, the Lemieux Library and McGoldrick Learning Commons at Seattle University involved gutting the original Lemieux Library, constructed in 1966, and adding the commons structure for a total combined size of 125,000 square feet. This project represented the largest, singular investment by Seattle University in capital facilities to promote academic excellence and scholarly achievement. As such, SU established an early set of sustainable design goals for the project to create an energy efficient facility and a productive place for learning. The project includes significant technology infrastructure for modern learning, including a media center and videoconferencing facility, as well as indoor and outdoor spaces for quiet reading and study, and an array of international artwork.

O’Brien & Company joined the project during Design Development to conduct a LEED analysis and help the project team achieve a minimum of LEED Gold for the McGoldrick Learning Commons addition as mandated in the University’s 2006 – 2026 Facilities Master Plan. The design features a highly efficient chiller, chilled beams, underfloor air distribution and displace ventilation to generate significant energy savings, and a rain-fed water sculpture, raingardens and drought-tolerant landscaping. O’Brien & Company worked extensively with the design and construction team on materials selection and complying with LEED credits. We also helped Mortenson Construction earn an Innovation credit for the “Green Job Trailer” they developed for use on this project. The project earned LEED-NC Gold Certification in mid-2011.